A novel lead-acid battery-based system that combines energy storage with hydrogen production is moving closer to commercialisation, following support from a UK deep-tech accelerator programme.
Matt Brenton, a research associate at Loughborough University, has been selected as one of 10 participants in the Royce Hydrogen Accelerator, delivered in partnership with Conception X. The initiative aims to help scale early-stage hydrogen technologies with commercial potential.
Brenton is part of the LoCEL-H2 project, a €10 million Horizon Europe programme focused on delivering sustainable energy storage and clean fuel solutions to underserved communities in Africa, including Zambia and Côte d’Ivoire. His work centres on advancing a “battery-electrolyser” concept that integrates hydrogen generation directly into a lead-acid battery system.
Hydrogen production through electrolysis
The technology combines energy storage and electrolysis in a single unit, using established lead-acid chemistry to produce hydrogen without the need for membranes or rare metal catalysts. The system is capable of generating around 20 litres per minute of high-purity hydrogen, with validation testing completed in July 2025 demonstrating purity levels of up to 99%.
Field deployment is now under way. The technology is being commissioned in Malawi, with a further installation planned in Côte d’Ivoire in June 2026. The latter project is expected to support a remote village community by enabling new income-generating activities, including the establishment of a restaurant powered by locally produced energy and hydrogen.
The battery-electrolyser concept has attracted more than £12 million in funding and support from over 20 partners, drawing on a combination of European funding, Innovate UK grants and regional development programmes. Current efforts are focused on scaling manufacturing, automating production and validating long-term performance in real-world conditions.
Brenton, who recently completed a PhD on lead-acid battery-electrolysers, has been involved in the technology’s development since its inception in a 2020–21 feasibility study at Loughborough’s Centre for Renewable Energy Systems Technology (CREST).
Participation in the nine-month Royce Hydrogen Accelerator programme, running from March to November, will provide commercialisation support including investor access, legal guidance and technical mentoring, culminating in a demonstration day for potential industry partners.
Speaking about his selection, Matt said: “Sustainability is at the forefront of my work, research and interests. Throughout my education and research, I have been driven by a desire to reduce carbon emissions and create a more equitable future. I am very grateful to the Royce Hydrogen Accelerator for the opportunity to advance the development of the battery‑electrolyser through Conception X – we’ve come such a long way in six years.”
Professor Dan Parsons, pro vice‑chancellor for research and innovation at Loughborough University, said: “This recognition follows perfectly from Matt’s PhD. He has also been a fantastic public engagement ambassador for Loughborough, taking part in a range of industry and outreach activities, including Pint of Science and the Festival of Tomorrow. All of us at Loughborough wish him all the very best as he embarks on the programme.”
Photo: Matt Brenton (right) presenting the battery-electrolyser to Rod Hebden on the Festival of Tomorrow podcast (© Loughborough University)
